Is Singapore Safe? A Tourist's Guide to Safety and Security
Singapore, often referred to as the “Lion City,” is one of the most dynamic and modern cities in the world. Known for its stunning skyline, lush green spaces, and impeccable cleanliness, Singapore is a city that blends tradition and modernity seamlessly. It’s famous for attractions like Marina Bay Sands, a luxury hotel and entertainment complex with its iconic infinity pool overlooking the city, and the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, a nature park filled with architectural wonders. Tourists often visit between December and June, enjoying the best weather and a range of festivals. No matter when you visit, you can trust Qeepl, a worldwide luggage storage provider, to keep your belongings safe so that you can fully enjoy Singapore without worry.
Is Singapore Safe to Travel to Right Now?
As of 2024, Singapore remains one of the safest cities in the world for tourists. Known for its stringent laws and effective law enforcement, the city boasts low crime rates and a high level of security. According to the latest data from Numbeo, Singapore has a crime index of 22.99 and a safety index of 77.01, making it one of the most secure destinations globally. The city’s dedication to public safety ensures that both residents and visitors experience a sense of comfort while exploring its many attractions.
Notably, Singapore is ranked as the number one safest country for women to live worldwide, a testament to its overall commitment to safety and security. While some countries may have pockets of unrest or frequent reports of crime, Singapore’s steady focus on maintaining a safe environment has made it a shining example of urban security.
Is Singapore Safe to Visit Alone?
Singapore is an excellent destination for solo travelers. The city’s reputation for safety, combined with its efficient transportation system and welcoming locals, makes it a favorite among solo tourists. Whether you are strolling through the busy streets of Orchard Road, exploring Chinatown, or simply taking in the skyline from the Marina Bay promenade, you’ll find Singapore to be a secure and peaceful place to travel alone.
The likelihood of encountering any issues as a solo traveler is minimal, especially with the city’s visible police presence and strict regulations against criminal activity. As long as solo visitors practice basic safety measures—like being mindful of their belongings and avoiding isolated areas late at night—Singapore provides a calm and secure environment for exploration.
Is Singapore Safe to Visit for Women?
For women travelers, Singapore is one of the safest destinations in the world. According to the 2023 statistics from Travel Ladies for the city, the violence rate in Singapore is just 13.8%, significantly lower than many other global cities. This low violence rate reflects Singapore’s commitment to the safety of women, both local and international, allowing them to feel at ease whether they are traveling solo or in groups. You can read more about these statistics on Travel Ladies.
Women in Singapore are free to move about the city without fear of harassment or violence, even at night. The well-lit streets, visible police presence, and strict penalties for crimes contribute to a sense of safety. Female travelers can enjoy all of the city’s attractions, from its bustling shopping districts to its serene parks, without worrying about their security. Additionally, the local culture is one of respect and courtesy, ensuring that female tourists are treated with kindness and consideration.
Common Crimes and Scams That Tourists Should Be Aware Of
While Singapore is generally a safe city, tourists should remain cautious of certain petty crimes and scams that can occur, particularly in busy areas frequented by tourists. Pickpocketing is rare, but in crowded places like markets or during festivals, it’s advisable to keep personal belongings secure and within sight.
Another common scam is the fake goods scam, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Bugis Street or Little India. Some vendors may try to sell counterfeit products at inflated prices, claiming them to be genuine. It’s always best to purchase luxury items or electronics from reputable stores and to be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Additionally, tourists should be aware of overcharging taxi drivers, although this is less common due to strict regulations. Always ensure that the taxi meter is running, or consider using ride-hailing services like Grab, which are widely available and offer transparency with fares.
Is Singapore’s Public Transportation Safe?
Singapore’s public transportation system is one of the best in the world, offering safe, reliable, and clean options for getting around the city. The MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) network and bus services are the most commonly used, providing easy access to all major tourist spots, residential areas, and the airport. The system is user-friendly with clear signage in English, and it’s equipped with helpful tools such as the EZ-Link card, a convenient cashless way to pay for transport.
The public transportation system in Singapore is considered very safe, even late at night. Most MRT stations are well-lit and patrolled by security officers, and the buses operate under strict safety regulations. To ensure a smooth journey, tourists should keep an eye on their belongings during rush hours, as public transport can get crowded. Additionally, when traveling alone late at night, sit near the driver or other passengers for added security. Ride-hailing services like Grab are also safe and popular, especially for late-night rides when public transport may be less frequent.
Safest Neighborhoods in Singapore
Marina Bay
Marina Bay is one of the most modern and upscale areas of Singapore, and it’s known for its luxurious hotels, shopping complexes, and attractions like the Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion Park. This area is considered extremely safe due to its high tourist density and visible law enforcement presence. The numerous attractions, along with constant surveillance, make it a secure environment for both day and night explorations.
Orchard Road
Famous for its shopping and entertainment, Orchard Road is another safe and well-patrolled neighborhood in Singapore. Visitors frequent this area for its high-end malls, restaurants, and nightlife. Orchard Road is generally bustling with activity, and its heavy foot traffic, combined with constant surveillance, contributes to its reputation as one of the safest parts of the city.
Sentosa Island
For those looking for a more relaxed setting, Sentosa Island is a top tourist destination known for its beaches, resorts, and attractions like Universal Studios Singapore. Sentosa has stringent security measures in place due to its status as a major tourist hub, and crime rates are virtually nonexistent. The island’s high-end resorts and family-friendly atmosphere make it an incredibly safe destination for all kinds of travelers.
What Areas of Singapore Should Be Avoided?
Geylang
While Singapore is widely recognized as one of the safest cities in the world, Geylang is known to have slightly higher crime rates compared to other areas. Geylang is a red-light district, and while the area is still relatively safe by international standards, tourists may want to avoid it late at night due to its nightlife and occasional reports of petty crimes such as pickpocketing.
Little India
Little India is a vibrant cultural district filled with markets, temples, and delicious food. While it’s generally safe during the day, petty theft can occur in crowded areas, especially during festivals and public holidays when the district becomes busier. Tourists should remain cautious with their belongings and avoid walking alone in the area late at night.
Yishun
Another area that tourists might want to approach with caution is Yishun, a residential neighborhood located in the northern part of Singapore. While not dangerous by international standards, Yishun has garnered a reputation for occasional reports of petty crime, vandalism, and disturbances. It’s generally safe during the day, but tourists are advised to be cautious when visiting after dark.
Important Emergency Numbers in Singapore
In case of any emergencies during your stay in Singapore, it is crucial to have the local emergency numbers handy. Here are three important numbers that tourists should know:
- 999 – This is the general emergency number for police services.
- 995 – This number is used for fire and ambulance emergencies.
- 1777 – This number is for non-emergency ambulance services.
For more information and a full list of emergency contacts, visit ATM Fee Saver’s Emergency Numbers page to ensure you’re fully prepared.